In Australia, early voting commenced for upcoming general elections as campaigning was disrupted by the death of Pope Francis. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton showed respect by canceling events, with flags at half mast reflecting the 20% Catholic population. Albanese and Dutton attended Mass, emphasizing reflection over politics. The leaders debated on political issues, with Dutton labeling Albanese as a "weak leader" and Albanese countering with accusations of desperation. The Labour Party seeks to retain its narrow majority in the forthcoming election scheduled for May 3.
"I try not to talk about my faith in public. At times like this, I think what people do is, they draw on who they are, and certainly my Catholicism is just a part of me."
"I don't think it's a day for overt politicking at all. I think that the day is best spent reflecting. I don't think there's a place for the body blows of politics today."
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